Willard Keith "Pete" Zeis Jr.

Willard Keith "Pete" Zeis, Jr., affectionately known as "Pop Pete," passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the age of 72. Born on July 13, 1952, in Decatur, Georgia, Pete was the beloved son of the late Willard Keith "Pete" Zeis, Sr. and Rosalie Herren Zeis.
From a young age, Pete was immersed in the world of underground utilities, a field in which he would later become a respected leader. He was the proud owner and operator of Benton Georgia, an underground utility company; and his most current business venture, McIntosh Specialty Services, a paving business, where he built a legacy of hard work, integrity, and professionalism.
Pete's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his loving wife and partner of 36 years, Jan Zeis; his children, Chad and Jessie Zeis, Jenny and Chris Allison; and his stepson and daughter-in-law, Brandon and Susan McLendon. He was a proud grandfather to Carolina Grace Zeis, Hagen Zeis, Tritt Zeis, Dawson Easton, Trenton Eaton, Lindsey McLendon, and Lauren McLendon Rigsby, as well as a great-grandfather to Ethan Rigsby and Everly Rigsby. He also leaves behind his sister and her partner, Linda Zeis and Carl Marcus, and his brother, Steve Zeis.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister-in-law, Kathy Zeis.
In accordance with his wishes, Pete was laid to rest in a private family ceremony at the Town of Roopville Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM at Martin & Hightower Funeral Home, where all who loved him are invited to gather and share memories.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital-two causes close to Pete's heart.
A more detailed tribute to Pete's life and legacy will be shared in the coming days.
Friends and family are invited to send condolence messages to the family at www.martin-hightower.com. Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel is honored to handle the arrangements and support the family during this difficult time.